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Hopkinton fire chief laid to rest

Schaefer buried in private service

Community comes together as Hopkinton Fire Chief Richard Schaefer is laid to rest.

Hopkinton fire chief laid to rest

Schaefer buried in private service

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Updated: 11:51 PM EDT Sep 8, 2012

HOPKINTON, N.H. —

Much of the town of Hopkinton turned out Saturday as Fire Chief Rick Schaefer was laid to rest.

Schaefer died of a heart attack while on the job last Sunday. Those who knew the chief say he loved being a firefighter and serving the community where he grew up.

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On Saturday, that community paid its last respects.

"He's a well-loved local boy," said Melissa Jones, a Hopkinton resident.

Jones was one of many who stood along the funeral procession route to say goodbye to Schaefer.

Born and raised in Hopkinton, Jones only met the chief briefly, but said he made an impact.

"In a small town like ... we know they do a lot for us," she said.

Schaefer served on Hopkinton's Fire Department for more than three decades. Hundreds gathered Friday night at the middle school for a wake to honor his life.

Schaefer's funeral procession Saturday morning stretched through the entire town as flags stood at half-staff at the fire department. The procession stopped briefly at the fire department, so Schaefer's helmet could be handed to his family.

Outside St. Theresa's Catholic Church in Henniker, firefighters from across the state gathered to offer their support to his family and honor the chief.

Schaefer was buried in a private service at Contoocook Village Cemetery.